[SM1]

I had this idea, and figured maybe someone else would benefit too.

I have an iPhone 6 as my main phone. I like CarPlay, but there are a few annoying limitations, like the need to connect your phone with a cable and the limited set of apps available. On the other hand, Amazon sells the Blu R1 HD unlocked Android phone for $60 (with lockscreen ads). (link)

So I just ordered one to throw in the console and leave connected so I always have Android Auto on tap. Google has said Waze will be available on Android Auto "soon", which is awesome, but Google Maps is still better than Apple Maps any day.

As far as data goes, I happen to have a 200MB free for life T-Mobile SIM card I can use, which is probably enough data for the maps. But since we all have a hotspot built into the car, there's also the $10/1GB plan available through OnStar which probably gets you some music streaming as well.

Maybe not the greatest idea for those that have factory nav, but if you prefer Google Maps or (soon) Waze, it's not a bad option.

[slick3]

Originally Posted by SM1

I had this idea, and figured maybe someone else would benefit too.

I have an iPhone 6 as my main phone. I like CarPlay, but there are a few annoying limitations, like the need to connect your phone with a cable and the limited set of apps available. On the other hand, Amazon sells the Blu R1 HD unlocked Android phone for $60 (with lockscreen ads). (link)

So I just ordered one to throw in the console and leave connected so I always have Android Auto on tap. Google has said Waze will be available on Android Auto "soon", which is awesome, but Google Maps is still better than Apple Maps any day.

As far as data goes, I happen to have a 200MB free for life T-Mobile SIM card I can use, which is probably enough data for the maps. But since we all have a hotspot built into the car, there's also the $10/1GB plan available through OnStar which probably gets you some music streaming as well.

Maybe not the greatest idea for those that have factory nav, but if you prefer Google Maps or (soon) Waze, it's not a bad option.

I have had the same idea (I do not have my 1LE yet though). I have an old GS5 that I was going to do this with and the integrated hotspot data. (I have a 6s that I actually use as my primary phone)

Only problem is lack of text and phone call integration unless you can pair over bluetooth simultaneously which I seriously doubt.

[cellsafemode]

Just dont take calls or reply to texts while driving. Driving is me time even if i'm only doing it to get to work. Everyone else can wait till i get to where i'm going.

[SM1]

Originally Posted by slick3

Only problem is lack of text and phone call integration unless you can pair over bluetooth simultaneously which I seriously doubt.

Solid point, and one I thought of on the way home today. We'll have to see if I can Bluetooth the iPhone with the android connected. Unless someone else already knows?

Either way, it'll be nice to have the option of Waze on the MyLink for $60. I don't really use the phone in the car for texting or calling much anyway.

[SM1]

Originally Posted by cellsafemode

Just dont take calls or reply to texts while driving. Driving is me time even if i'm only doing it to get to work. Everyone else can wait till i get to where i'm going.

Username checks out.

[suzook]

Here's another idea....get rid of the iPhone?

[SM1]

Originally Posted by suzook

Here's another idea....get rid of the iPhone?

I've been an iPhone guy for years. Last job gave me an android (GS2, which was a newer model at the time) and I tried. I really tried to like it. But I hated it. The day the contract was up, I went back. Not saying android is worse or iPhone is better, I really believe it's personal preference, but for day to day use I far prefer iPhone.

[JaxChris]

I've got both our phones paired to my car. I moved hers to first position on the device list because it wouldn't do two at the same time. I thought maybe the USB port for Android Auto would allow two active devices, but it did not.

When I connected with Android Auto, it kicked her phone from bluetooth and used the bluetooth connection for phone and audio integration. Got the bluetooth connection message in the DIC too. Apparently the cable only handles the visuals and charging. I was kind of disappointed by this since Android Auto doesn't need more bandwidth than bluetooth 4.0 can already handle. Would be nice to have Android Auto wirelessly so I didn't have to take my phone out of my pocket. Maybe they can do an update to allow Android Auto to work entirely over the cable and then two phones can work at once.

Like others, I don't want to touch my device at all around my car, but I do realize in today's hyper-connected world that work and family always expect to get a hold of you anytime.

[SSport16]

Originally Posted by suzook

Here's another idea....get rid of the iPhone?

Lol, was thinking the same thing!

[SuperSound]

Originally Posted by SM1

Solid point, and one I thought of on the way home today. We'll have to see if I can Bluetooth the iPhone with the android connected. Unless someone else already knows?

Can't be done. AA has to be connected via BT at all times. Wish GM would have allowed 2 phones to be paired at a time. But it is a 2 door sports car. Probably didn't seem likely to be used.

[Tripleturbo]

google navi and google maps are the best

very easy to use, are practical